Andorra Dietitians Finalize CASS Integration After Key Ministry Meeting

Dietitians and nutritionists in Andorra met with health ministry officials on Tuesday to resolve outstanding issues in their draft agreement for integrating services into the CASS public health system, with both sides now anticipating a signature in the near future.

The gathering addressed key demands from the Professional College of Dietitians and Nutritionists, including an annual review of the convention, fixed session fees and future adjustments linked to the consumer price index. Participants expressed confidence in finalising the deal promptly after reaching consensus on these points. Before services can be covered, individual professionals must gain accreditation from the ministry and receive training on using patient medical records.

Government representatives intend to forward the updated draft to the college shortly for endorsement. Sources note that while summer holidays had slowed progress, the session marked significant advancement. College members highlighted the productive dialogue and reiterated their commitment to swift implementation.

Following college approval of the general convention, practitioners can choose to join and provide reimbursed consultations, mainly for chronic issues such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, digestive problems, kidney failure, eating disorders and cancer. Referrals from primary care physicians or specialists will be required, covering two to six sessions annually based on the condition—with options for extensions, such as adding two more sessions for obesity in a second year or two extra each year for eating disorders. Each session costs €28, with CASS covering 75%.

A related government decree, published in the Official Bulletin of the Principality of Andorra last July and taking effect on 1 September, enables reimbursement for these consultations. Around ten active dietitians are eager to participate once registered as approved providers.

CASS had outlined a proposal to the college in August after prior talks, with authorities welcoming the joint efforts. Professionals continue advocating for a one-year pilot evaluation period to assess the rollout.